When it comes to French cuisine, one dish stands out from the rest in terms of versatility, taste, and iconic status: the crepe. This delicate, thin pancake has been a staple of French culture for centuries, with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. But which city of France is famous for crepes? The answer lies in the heart of Brittany, where the charming city of Rennes takes center stage as the crêpe capital of France.
History of Crepes in Rennes
Rennes, the capital of Brittany, has a long and storied history of crepe-making that dates back to the 13th century. According to local legend, crepes were first made by the city’s inhabitants as a way to use up leftover buckwheat flour, a staple crop in the region. Over time, the recipe was refined and perfected, with the addition of fresh ingredients like butter, eggs, and milk. The result was a delicate, lace-like pancake that could be served both sweet and savory.
Today, Rennes is home to over 100 creperies, each with its own unique twist on the traditional recipe. From classic buckwheat crepes filled with ham, cheese, and eggs to sweet crepes drizzled with honey and sprinkled with sugar, there’s a crepe to suit every taste and preference.
The Art of Crepe-Making in Rennes
What sets Rennes apart from other cities in France is the city’s dedication to preserving the traditional art of crepe-making. In Rennes, crepe-making is an artisanal craft that requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. Each crepe is made by hand, using a wooden spoon and a specially designed griddle that’s been heated to the perfect temperature.
The process begins with the preparation of the batter, which is made from a secret blend of flour, eggs, milk, and butter. The batter is then poured onto the griddle, where it’s expertly spread and cooked to a delicate, lacy texture. The result is a crepe that’s both crispy and delicate, with a subtle nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible.
The Importance of Ingredients
One of the key factors that sets Rennes’ crepes apart from those found in other cities is the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and verdant countryside, where farmers grow a wide range of fresh fruits and vegetables. From juicy strawberries and plump blueberries to tender asparagus and sweet, succulent peaches, the region’s bounty is reflected in the crepes that are served up in Rennes’ many creperies.
The Role of Buckwheat
Buckwheat, in particular, plays a starring role in Rennes’ crepe tradition. This protein-rich grain is grown locally and is prized for its nutty flavor and versatility. In Rennes, buckwheat is used to make both sweet and savory crepes, and is often paired with other ingredients like eggs, cheese, and ham. The result is a crepe that’s both flavorful and nutritious, and that’s perfect for snacking on the go.
Exploring Rennes’ Creperies
With over 100 creperies to choose from, visitors to Rennes are spoiled for choice when it comes to sampling the city’s famous crepes. From traditional, family-run creperies to modern, trendy spots, there’s a creperie to suit every taste and budget.
One of the city’s most famous creperies is Crêperie Saint-Sauveur, which has been serving up traditional Breton crepes since 1955. This cozy, family-run spot is a must-visit for anyone looking to try the city’s famous crepes in a traditional setting. Another popular spot is Crêperie des Philosophes, which offers a modern twist on the traditional crepe recipe, with ingredients like foie gras and truffles.
Crepe Varieties in Rennes
One of the things that sets Rennes apart from other cities in France is the sheer variety of crepes on offer. From classic savory crepes filled with ham, cheese, and eggs to sweet crepes drizzled with honey and sprinkled with sugar, there’s a crepe to suit every taste and preference.
Some popular crepe varieties in Rennes include:
- Savory crepes: filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, eggs, and vegetables
- Sweet crepes: filled with ingredients like Nutella, strawberries, and bananas
- Buckwheat crepes: made with locally sourced buckwheat and filled with ingredients like eggs, cheese, and ham
- Specialty crepes: filled with ingredients like foie gras, truffles, and seafood
Crepe Pairings in Rennes
In Rennes, crepes are often paired with a variety of delicious fillings and toppings, including:
- Fresh fruits: strawberries, blueberries, bananas, and more
- Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and sesame seeds
- Spreads and jams: Nutella, peanut butter, and homemade fruit jams
- Cheeses and meats: ham, bacon, eggs, and a variety of artisanal cheeses
Top Creperies in Rennes
With so many creperies to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some of the top creperies in Rennes, each with its own unique twist on the traditional crepe recipe:
- Crêperie Saint-Sauveur: a traditional, family-run creperie that’s been serving up classic Breton crepes since 1955
- Crêperie des Philosophes: a modern, trendy spot that offers a contemporary twist on the traditional crepe recipe, with ingredients like foie gras and truffles
- Crêperie de la Place: a cozy, family-friendly spot that’s been serving up delicious crepes in the heart of Rennes since 1985
Conclusion
Rennes, the charming capital of Brittany, is without a doubt the crêpe capital of France. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and dedication to preserving traditional artisanal crafts, Rennes is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves crepes. From traditional, family-run creperies to modern, trendy spots, Rennes offers a crepe experience like no other. So why not plan a trip to Rennes today and indulge in a delicious, mouth-watering crepe (or two, or three…)?
What is the Crêpe Capital of France?
The Crêpe Capital of France is a city called Gwened, which is located in the northwest part of the country, in the Brittany region. It’s a beautiful city with a rich history, culture, and traditions. Gwened is most famous for its crêpes, a type of thin pancake that is a staple in Breton cuisine.
The city’s love affair with crêpes dates back to the 13th century, when buckwheat was introduced to the region. Buckwheat is the primary ingredient used to make traditional Breton crêpes, which are known for their delicate flavor and thin texture. Over time, Gwened’s crêpes became famous throughout France, and the city earned the nickname “Crêpe Capital.”
What types of crêpes can I find in Gwened?
Gwened offers a wide variety of crêpes to suit all tastes and preferences. You can find traditional savory crêpes, known as “galettes,” which are typically served with fillings such as ham, cheese, egg, and vegetables. These crêpes are a staple in Breton cuisine and are often served as a main course.
In addition to savory crêpes, you can also find sweet crêpes, known as “crêpes dentelles,” which are typically served with sweet fillings such as butter, sugar, fruit, and whipped cream. Some crêperies also offer more modern and innovative crêpe flavors, such as crêpes with seafood, meat, or vegetarian fillings.
How do I get to Gwened?
Getting to Gwened is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. The city is located near the Nantes Atlantique Airport, which receives flights from several European cities. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Gwened, which takes around 30-40 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris or other major French cities to the Gwened train station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to your final destination. If you prefer to drive, Gwened is accessible via the A11 highway, and there are several parking options available in the city center.
What are some must-visit crêperies in Gwened?
Gwened is home to many excellent crêperies, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere. One of the most famous crêperies in the city is Crêperie Josselin, which has been serving traditional Breton crêpes since 1963. Another popular crêperie is Crêperie de Gwened, which offers a wide variety of crêpes and specializes in sweet and savory combinations.
Other notable crêperies include Crêperie des Arts, which is located in the heart of the old town and offers a cozy atmosphere, and Crêperie Le Chat Botte, which is known for its innovative and creative crêpe fillings. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as the “galette complète,” which is a savory crêpe filled with ham, cheese, and egg.
What else is there to do in Gwened besides eating crêpes?
While crêpes are certainly a highlight of Gwened, there are many other things to see and do in the city. Gwened has a rich history and culture, and there are several museums and historical landmarks worth visiting. The city’s old town is particularly charming, with its narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and picturesque canals.
You can also visit the Château de Gwened, a beautiful medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. The castle offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, Gwened has several parks and nature reserves, as well as a canal path that’s perfect for walking and cycling.
Are there any festivals or events in Gwened that I shouldn’t miss?
Gwened hosts several festivals and events throughout the year that are worth attending. One of the most popular events is the Fête des Crêpes, which takes place every August. During this festival, the city’s crêperies offer special deals and discounts, and there are live music and dance performances in the streets.
Another popular event is the Gwened Jazz Festival, which takes place every July. The festival features performances by local and international jazz musicians, and there are also food stalls and craft markets. In addition, Gwened hosts a weekly market every Saturday, where you can find local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Is Gwened suitable for families with children?
Gwened is an excellent destination for families with children. The city has several parks and playgrounds, as well as a trampoline park and an indoor play center. There are also several crêperies that cater specifically to children, with fun and kid-friendly fillings.
In addition, Gwened has a zoo and a aquarium, which are perfect for families with young children. The city also offers several child-friendly attractions, such as a mini-golf course and a bowling alley. Many of the city’s hotels and accommodations also offer family-friendly rooms and services, making it an ideal destination for families.